Introduction
Among the rarest and maximum coveted treasures in American numismatics, the 1868 Liberty Head Eagle holds a special region. This $10 gold coin, minted just three years after the Civil War ended, is now worth as much as $930,000 and it’s now not hard to peer why.
From its limited mintage to its historic significance and lovely gold content material, this coin is a gem in every sense. Let’s take a deeper take a look at what makes the 1868 Liberty Head Eagle so valuable and why collectors are willing to pay almost 1,000,000 greenbacks for it.
Historical Background and Design
The Liberty Head Eagle, produced in 1868, turned into designed by way of Christian Gobrecht, the third Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. The obverse bears a left-going through picture of Lady Liberty carrying a coronet with the phrase “LIBERTY” engraved thereon.
Surrounding her are 13 stars, which represent the original colonies, and the mintage 12 months of the coin at the bottom. The reverse capabilities a heraldic eagle clutching olive branch and arrows in its talons, with a guard on its breast. Suspended above the eagle is a scroll upon which the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed, a motto brought to U.S. Coins in this period.
Mintage and Rarity
The 1868 Liberty Head Eagle was moderately minted at the Philadelphia and San Francisco mints, at only 10,655 pieces and 13,500 respectively. Such relatively low mint runs play a massive role in rendering the coin not only rare but also highly desired among collectors.
Interestingly enough, very few of these pieces have survived well-preserved over time, although some estimates provide that there could be fewer than 100 intact pieces remaining now in some preserved states.
Specifications
The specifications of the coin are:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Composition | 90% gold, 10% copper |
| Gold Content | 0.4806 troy ounces |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Weight | 16.718 grams |
| Edge | Reeded |
Market Value and Auction Records
The price of the 1868 Liberty Head Eagle depends on its condition, scarcity, and demand in the market. The coins sell for several thousand dollars in lower grades. However, examples graded in mint state (MS) command much higher prices. For example, in 2024, an example graded MS63 by a prominent grading service sold for a whopping $930,000 at a Heritage Auctions sale. The sale indicates the exceptional value of the coin and the premium charged on well-preserved specimens.
Quick Facts About the 1868 Liberty Head Eagle
- Denomination: $10 (Eagle)
- Designer: Christian Gobrecht
- Metal Composition: 90% gold, 10% copper
- Weight: 16.718 grams
- Minted At: Primarily the Philadelphia Mint
- Total Mintage: Just 10,630 coins
- Estimated Value Today: Up to $930,000 (for high-grade, certified examples)
Factors Affecting Value
A number of factors make the 1868 Liberty Head Eagle so valuable:
- Rarity: Low mintage and the survival of few examples make it rarer.
- Condition: Coins in higher grades, particularly those with little wear, command premium prices.
- Historical Significance: As a symbol of post-Civil War America, the coin is highly historically significant.
- Design: The detailed artwork by Christian Gobrecht provides beauty.
Collect and Investment Value
The 1868 Liberty Head Eagle is a sought-after coin for creditors and traders alike. Its scarcity and records make it a worthwhile addition to any series. Investors don’t forget coins of this nature to be physical assets that may growth in value through the years, specifically if they’re properly preserved.
Conservation and Maintenance
It is crucial to hold the coin in properly condition which will preserve its value. The coin need to be saved in a controlled environment with no humidity or temperature adjustments. Handling ought to be averted, and whilst it can not be avoided, gloves need to be used to prevent oils from hands destructive the coin.
How to Verify and Sell One
If you suspect your coin may be valuable:
- Do NOT clean it — this can lower its value.
- Consult a professional coin dealer or numismatist.
- Get it graded by a trusted service like PCGS or NGC.
- Consider auctioning it through reputable platforms like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers.
Conclusion
The 1868 Liberty Head Eagle is more than a coin it’s a tangible piece of American history. Whether you’re a critical collector or a informal enthusiast, understanding the tale at the back of this nearly $1 million gold coin provides richness to the sector of numismatics. You may just discover one in a own family series, antique property, or auction house. With values reaching near 1,000,000 dollars, this coin proves that history is now and again well worth its weight in gold literally.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1868 Liberty Head Eagle so valued?
Its price is due to its rarity, historical importance, and state of preservation. Limited production and scarce existing specimens in high grades contribute to its premium marketplace value.
Who created the 1868 Liberty Head Eagle?
Christian Gobrecht, the third Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, created the coin.
What is the gold content of the 1868 Liberty Head Eagle?
The coin is 0.4806 troy oz. Of gold in composition of 90% copper and 10% gold.